Yemisi Izuora
Nigeria’s former Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Mr. Olusegun Aganga has been appointed as a member of the Advisory Board of the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust (QCT).
The Trust was launched and the announcement made, on Saturday, at the celebration of the 92nd birthday of the British monarch, in London.
The event was attended by the Celebrant, Her Royal Majestic , the Queen of England who was escorted in by Prince Charles, the Royal family, Head of States, Ambassadors and other dignitaries”
Aganga, who was a one time managing director of Goldman Sach, joined Shanthi Annan, Adam Bradford, Diana Good, David Grevemberg, Bill Holroyd, Julie Holroyd, Dr Kamel Hothi, Kelvin Hughes, Kenny Imafidon and the The Rt Hon. the Lord Kakkar as member of the advisory board.
Others are Ankit Kawatra, Michael Lake, Alexander McLean, Angeline Murimirwa, Dr Joanna Newman, Shally Shanker, Jordan Swain, Bill Thomas and Joannes Yimbesalu.
Aganga said “I am really excited about the idea behind the trust and goals particularly as it is targeting young social entrepreneurs in the Commonwealth. The enthusiasm and energy of the Queen Commonwealth Trust team is also infectious. I have no doubt that many young social entrepreneurs in Nigeria will benefit from the Trust”.
Aganga who was also the chairman of the World Bank and IMF in 2010 pledged to plough back his wealth of experience as minister and financial expert to working for the realization of the objectives of the Fund.
The Queen’s Commonwealth Trust will use its network, platform and experience, together with the collaborative input of like-minded foundations and supporters, to enable young leaders across the commonwealth including Nigeria to realise their dreams and hopes for the future.
“We want to be a platform for young change-makers across the Commonwealth. A place where smart ideas are shared, sparking inspiration. Where the cumulative impact of thousands of small acts of kindness can be seen and celebrated. A place where more and more people feel motivated and enabled to step up and take action – no matter how small,” the Trust listed as part of its objective.
It stated further “We find and fund young people whose bright ideas solve local problems in education, health, the environment and sport. We support those who have set up their own not-for-profit organisations, as well as those who are leading projects that help others”.